DANIEL HOWARTH FROM RHYL SENTENCED FOR DECADES OF SEXUAL ABUSE AGAINST GIRLS IN NORTH WALES
In a case that has shocked the community of Rhyl and the wider North Wales region, Daniel John Howarth, aged 36, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of a series of heinous sexual offenses spanning over two decades.The court heard that Howarth had committed multiple assaults on young girls, with the abuse dating back to the 1990s and continuing into the 2000s and even as recently as last year.
Last week, a jury at Caernarfon Crown Court found Howarth guilty of one count of rape and four counts of sexual assault against a girl during the 1990s and early 2000s.
These convictions followed a trial that revealed the extent of his predatory behavior.
Prior to the trial, Howarth had admitted to sexually assaulting a girl in the 2000s and 2010s, as well as another girl just last year, indicating a disturbing pattern of offending that persisted over many years.
The victims, whose identities remain protected, provided powerful Victim Personal Statements during the court proceedings.
One victim described feeling “very scared” during and after the assaults, highlighting the profound psychological impact these crimes had on her.
Another victim expressed her ongoing fear that her ordeal might be exposed, underscoring the lasting trauma inflicted by Howarth’s actions.
Judge Huw Rees, presiding over the case, addressed the court and emphasized the serious nature of Howarth’s offenses.
He stated, “You abused three girls over a length of time and your behaviour speaks for itself.
You pose a significant risk of harm by committing further offences.” The judge’s comments reflected his concern about the potential for future harm, given the pattern of offending and the duration over which it occurred.
In sentencing, Howarth received a total of 12 years in prison.
He was sentenced to six years for the charges related to the first girl, and an additional six years for the offenses against the second and third victims.
Importantly, these sentences are to be served consecutively, meaning Howarth will spend a minimum of 12 years behind bars before being eligible for parole.
Representing Howarth, solicitor Simon Killeen acknowledged the gravity of the case and admitted that sentencing his client was a difficult process.
The court was informed that Howarth will only be considered for release by the Parole Board once he has served two-thirds of his sentence.
Upon release, he will be subject to a further six years on licence, during which he must adhere to strict conditions.
Additionally, Howarth was placed under a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which restricts his activities and requires him to register his details with police for the duration of the order.
This measure aims to monitor and prevent any further offending, ensuring community safety in Rhyl and beyond.
The case has left a lasting impact on the victims and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable individuals from predatory offenders.
